Menicon to Open New Concert Hall, ANNEX

Menicon, Japan's largest contact lens producer, opened a new complex called ANNEX at its Nagoya headquarters, comprised of a state-of-the-art multipurpose hall and roomy gallery space for use by those in the arts community and the wider public.

The company invited members of the media to the opening of HITOMI Hall and Gallery Menio on June 29th at ANNEX. There was a mini-concert featuring special guest pianist Ikuyo Nakamichi, a soloist who has performed at Carnegie Hall in New York and with leading orchestras around the world. Future events will include concerts sponsored by Menicon and other cultural events such as lectures.

The opening of ANNEX continues the company's long-running support for the arts and sporting activities, which includes hosting the annual Menicon Super Concert since 1991 and the Menicon Cup, an East-West match for Japan's U-15 youth soccer league, since 1995.

By opening part of their headquarters to the public, Menicon hopes to contribute to the cultural vibrancy of society, but also to highlight the importance of eye health by investing in arts and performances that employ a visual medium.

Gallery Menio on the 1st floor contains a permanent exhibition of bamboo carvings, wood block carvings, bottle architecture and other original works by Menicon founder Kyoichi Tanaka and family members. The works convey the same spirit of creativity and determination that motivated the family when building the company. The remaining presentation space is available for use by the public.

The gallery will be open weekdays from 9:30 A.M. to 6:30 P.M. and admission is free.

HITOMI Hall is available for musical performances, lectures and other events, and has a Steinway & Sons B211 piano in place. The hall is also available for use by the general public, which the company hopes will offer a new and refreshing environment in which community members come together.